After the attacks of September 11, 2001, and now with the recently launched
war with Iraq, many of us feel somewhat vulnerable and worried regarding the
safety of our nation and our personal lives. We may be greatly concerned about
the whereabouts of loved ones deployed to war zones. Within our American borders,
we may have concerns about potential acts of terrorism, including possible
chemical and biological attacks.

What can ordinary folks do to live wisely and productively during these unsettling
times? Here are some suggestions for positive action:

*** Squarely face your feelings of anxiety and fear. It is natural to be somewhat
worried and afraid. In addition to acknowledging our feelings to ourselves,
we can talk them over with trusted friends and family members. Of course, it
is best not to overwhelm children with our worries. We should save those conversations
for healthy adults.

*** Listen with understanding and patience to those who need to share their
thoughts with you. A sense of mutual caring creates a community of love and
concern that strengthens and reassures each of us.

*** Pay enough attention to reliable news reports to get the essential facts,
but then turn the news off for a while. Too much absorption in war coverage
heightens feelings of powerlessness and hopelessness, which can numb our sensitivities
and cause us to become apathetic toward positive actions that we might be able
to take.

*** Focus your attention and energy on constructive work and recreation that
will produce a sense of personal accomplishment. Plan physical action into
your day whenever possible and take time for spiritual reflection. Encourage
family members and friends to do the same.

*** Find a worthwhile task that will help you respond to the war or to care
for someone in need, whether near or far. Examples: Write or telephone your
Congressperson to express your opinion and to urge appropriate action; Collect
items needed by agencies that support soldiers and their families, civilian
victims of the war, or the poor in Third World countries; Volunteer at the
headquarters of those agencies to sort donations, cook, or update their computer
files; or offer to babysit the child of a parent whose spouse is away on military
duty.

*** Spend extra time together as a family. Focus on some of the many good
things that are happening in your life and in our world. Laugh, play, exercise,
have fun; and be sure to eat well and get plenty of rest.

*** If you are spiritually oriented, don’t underestimate the research-documented
power of prayer and meditation. They can make a major difference, not only
in your composure and spiritual health, but also in the well-being of your
community and in helping to promote peace across our troubled planet.

*** Focus on the positives in your world and your nearby environment. Consciously
express appreciation for the affection of family members and dear friends,
the warmth of the sun, the aroma of a fragrant cup of tea, or the rich beauty
of the natural world around you.

In many ways, managing successfully boils down to living life one moment at
a time, protecting ourselves and our communities as best we can, reassuring
and caring for others, and focusing as much as possible on the ever-present
bright spots in our daily lives. We cannot erase our worries, but we can contain
them; and we can focus most of our energies on positive thoughts and constructive
activities.